Spine: a revolution in hinge technology in frame design is confirmed as another new supplier at 100% Optical London Show

November 2014

When Spine was shown at SILMO 2014 there was considerable interest on their eye catching stand.

Here is some information about the new technology you will be able to see for yourself next February.

“Here at SPINE we solve complex problems through intelligent engineering. Form follows function, aesthetics are dictated by technology and the solutions their relationship offers. Science takes centre stage.

The new hinge design was inspired by the interaction between vertebrae, SPINE solves age-old hinge limitations. Unencumbered by traditional parts and manufacturing processes, we strive to out-think the problems and the competition.

Globally patented, you can be assured there is no substitute, so don’t accept one. Continual flex appeal - SPINE hinges grip all day long, morphing to fit any face shape, head size, all with the lightest of touch. Temples open and close smoothly, gradually, without flicking and traditional “dead” points. There are no screws loose here - because there are no screws used in SPINE working mechanics.

In order to produce the engineering precision demanded by the patented SPINE hinge system, only the MiM metal working process can be trusted to create such complex forms in one single operation, in this critical a volume.

In brief, the process involves taking finely-powdered metal, mixing it with a binder material and passing it through a process known as injection mould forming, which employs an area of physics known as “rheology”, the study of the flow of matter.

Materials using MiM and comparable techniques result in components relied upon by a broad spectrum of industries; aerospace, automotive, medical and industrial. Why? Because the MiM method can produce parts where it is difficult, or even impossible to efficiently manufacture these items by any other means.

This ability to combine several typically prohibitive operations into one fluid process, ensures MiM provides numerous measurable savings, not only in the reduction of lead times but also the evasion of multiple processes usually amplified by miniaturisation. But MiM is recognised as a green technology thanks to the significant reduction in wastage compared to ‘traditional’ manufacturing methods, such as 5 axis CNC machining.

There are 5 working SPINE vertebrae constantly interacting seamlessly with each other to create a 90 degree hinge opening. As every element helps the other to take the strain, they rotate only 18 degrees meaning they share the load, making wear from friction virtually non-existent.

The spun wire cable is the heart of the SPINE hinge and is produced by the leading manufacturer in the world. It’s diameter is a mere 0.60mm and at full tensile strength can hold over 300kg. The dual springs not only provide the pulling power of SPINE, but they allow the articulation of the vertebrae and enable our unique auto-shut mechanism.

Each frame tip is precision laser engraved with the SPINE signature pattern, taken from the negative space between the vertebrae. Not merely a design detail, this also improves grip and reduces slipping.

Sometimes the most beautiful forms arise from engineering solutions to complex problems. SPINE is the ultimate expression of this process, whereby the aesthetic of the hinge has been entirely dictated by new technology and functionality.

Taken directly from the SPINE monogram, Spine’s signature nose pads feature on every metal frame we make. Precision tooled, they are encased in the highest quality silicone.

SPINE's sun lenses are discreetly lasered with the SPINE logo, all our high performance sunglass lenses are Category 3, so suitable for all conditions, and come with an inner anti-reflective coating as standard to minimise unwanted glare inside the lens.

The overall effect of “Form complementing function” is that a new style is born from necessity and every material is carefully considered. Handmade acetate meets milled aluminium, stainless steel is stamped and in the case of the SPINE hinge, precision micro-injected to bring the technology to life."